Some unusual birds have been floating around in Menemsha Harbor in recent weeks.

Alcid seabirds are black above and white below. This is called countershading, so they blend with the dark water from above and blend with the light sky from below, all to avoid predators.

Perhaps the most traditional harbinger of spring is when we first see robins.

Do you think black-capped chickadees are scarce this winter? If you do, you are not alone, as many feeder watchers across New England have recently reported fewer birds visiting their feeders.

The most unusual bird this week was the black-headed gull spotted by Jeff Bernier at the western end of Mattakessett Bay on Jan. 11.

Feeder reports can be very exciting. Watching them can lead you to exciting finds.